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Mariners pick Caceres as the new Rogic

Ben Horne

A-League leaders Central Coast have anointed Anthony Caceres as the club's new young gun.

With gifted playmaker Tom Rogic off to Scottish giants Celtic, the Mariners look set to put their faith in another 20-year-old with the world at his feet to fill the void as the finals approach.

Rogic's shoes are big ones to fill.

However, top goal-scorer Daniel McBreen has tipped midfielder Caceres to quickly find his feet against local rivals Newcastle Jets on Saturday night at Bluetongue Stadium.

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McBreen said Caceres is another super prospect, and has only missed selection this year because of the team's success.

"He's a good talent; he's obviously someone you would want in your team, but we've got plenty of players who can play in that position. I think Cass is more than capable of stepping up," said McBreen, with Caceres expected to be named in the Mariners' starting line-up.

"I'd say even with Tommy here, Caceres has got the best feet in the club. His touch on the ball is immaculate."

Newcastle will be desperate for victory as they look to hang onto sixth place on the ladder and put a gap between the four teams below them vying for playoff positions.

There's pressure on the high-flying Mariners too.

Central Coast won't want to lose top spot on the ladder and must prove they can continue to be as effective now they know Rogic is gone for good.

McBreen said all eyes would be on Caceres, but teammates wouldn't be putting too much pressure on him.

"We're not going to put too much pressure on him, we're just going to let him go out there and enjoy himself and do what we know he can do," he said.

"Hopefully he'll grow into the game and enjoy himself and have a great one."

The other hurdle for Central Coast to overcome this weekend in the F3 derby is the fact coach Graham Arnold will have to give his instructions from behind glass.

The respected manager has been banned from the sidelines for this week after abusing officials last round, and must coach from the grandstand.

McBreen said he and senior players would need to take more responsibility.

"He's put the onus on the senior players to fill those shoes and bring the younger boys through and keep everyone on their toes," he said.

"It's a team game; it's not just Arnie. We all know we've got to shoulder the burden and we'll be fine."